NTFELCAC: "'Redtagging' is a fictitious and self-serving claim of the CPP-NPA-NDF"

Posted to the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTFELCAC) Facebook Page (Apr 6, 2020): "'Redtagging' is a fictitious and self-serving claim of the CPP-NPA-NDF"

Presidential Communications Undersecretary Lorraine Marie T. Badoy has always been very blunt in unmasking the danger and immorality of the deadly virus Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP)-New People's Army (NPA)-National Democratic Front (NDF) in our society.

Usec. Badoy continues to defend and save what is most precious in our society, the children, from the unjust and mistreatment of the communist terrorist groups to them.

Every now and then, when a powerful individual unmasks these perpetrators, the CPP-NPA-NDF trembles down to their nerves, and guilt and denial come out.

"This is NOT RED TAGGING. THIS IS TRANSPARENCY IN INFORMATION DISSEMINATION. This is government doing its job," Usec. Lorraine Badoy emphasized.

#NTFELCAC
#EO70

https://www.facebook.com/ntfelcac/photos/a.115198216585238/207190934052632/?type=3&theater

https://www.facebook.com/ntfelcac/

NTFELCAC: "We challenge the CPP-NPA to respect the ceasefire..."

Posted to the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTFELCAC) Facebook Page (Apr 6, 2020): "We challenge the CPP-NPA to respect the ceasefire..."

Lt. Gen. Antonio Parlade Jr. asks, once again, the CPP-NPA to give the respect and peace our fellow Filipinos deserve, during the Lenten Season. This will allow our frontliners, especially the security forces, to continue their work in peace.

Furthermore, Lt. Gen. Parlade reminds us to be vigilant against CPP swindlers who mobilize their network to generate funds supposedly to assist the communities during the pandemic that are "actually good if put to appropriate use."

#NTFELCAC
#EO70

https://www.facebook.com/ntfelcac/photos/a.188277839277275/207295374042188/?type=3&theater

https://www.facebook.com/ntfelcac/

WESTMINCOM: WestMinCom spearheads Maritime Inter-Agency Meeting

Posted to the Western Mindanao Command(WESTMINCOM) Facebook Page (Apr 6, 2020): WestMinCom spearheads Maritime Inter-Agency Meeting

Camp Navarro, Calarian, Zamboanga City- April 6, 2020

WestMinCom commander, Lt. Gen. Cirilito Sobejana spearheaded an inter-agency meeting held at the Command Headquarters in Camp Navarro, Calarian, Zamboanga City on April 6, 2020.

This was in response to a report regarding the apprehension of Vietnamese Nationals working as vessel crews of a Philippine-registered ferry boat in Turtle Island, Taganak, Tawi- Tawi on April 3, 2020.

Apprehended were Tran Van Phuc, Nguyen Thanh Doan, Nguyen Thanh Tung, Tran Thanh Luy, Thach Trong, Nguyen Trung Hieu, Nguyen Tan Luc, and Nguyen Van Kham.

The eight were onboard F/B Amina with BOW number BARMM-TAWI-0225-19 owned by Mr. Al-Amin Ismael.

As per report received from the Officer In-Charge of Turtle Island Municipal Police Station, at 9am of April 3, the fishing vessel was at the waters between Taganak and Boan Island.

“The report is in relation with our campaign against illegal poaching,” said Mayor Mohd Faizal Jamalul.

"My team, composed of PNP personnel and municipal employees, was heading to Boan Island to distribute relief goods when we spotted the alleged Vietnamese vessel in the area which prompted us to conduct interrogation," the mayor added.

The apprehended personalities are currently undergoing investigation while the vessel was temporarily held near the Taganak shoreline.

“We are consolidating all necessary documents for the filing of appropriate charges against the apprehended personalities,” said Lt. Gen. Sobejana.

“Convergence and lateral coordination are very vital to ensure security posture and address challenges in our maritime domain,” he added.

#afpyoucantrust
#teamwmc
#teamkapayapaan
#wmcyourprotector
#wmcyourpartner
#wmcyourfriend

6th Infantry Division - Kampilan]601 Infantry - Unifier Brigade602nd "Liberator" Brigade603 Persuader Brigade1st Mechanized Infantry BrigadeUnang Marinong BrigadaTeam TabakJoint Taskforce BasilanTeam Igsoon103Rd Bde Haribon Pa Campo Ranao, Marawi CityMagbalantay Cmo11 Infantry Division "Alakdan Troopers"Gagandilan Siete1102 Infantry "ganarul" Brigade1st BCT AegisKwatromarinobrigada SuluJtf Tawi Tawi IndomalphiJoint Task Force ZamboangaVirtual Center ValenciaUnbeatable Ranger Battalion29th Infantry "Matatag" Battalion, Philippine ArmyPhilippine ArmyTow Westmin CmoTow Westmin PioNaval Forces Western MindanaoCmou Western MindanaoKatapatan Pangkatihan-Dagatan33rd Infantry Makabayan Battalion57th Infantry Masikap Battalion1st Mechanized Lakan Battalion90th Infantry Bigkis Lahi Battalion7th Infantry - TAPAT BattalionReliablecmo R Section6IB Redskin 37IB - Conqueror Battalion40 Infantry "Magiting" Battalion2nd Mechanized Infantry-MAKASAGBattalionOnlyourbest MbltFive38th Infantry We Clear Battalion

https://www.facebook.com/afpwestmincom/photos/pcb.1698446980297351/1698450333630349/?type=3&theater

https://www.facebook.com/afpwestmincom/photos/pcb.1698446980297351/1698450343630348/?type=3&theater

https://www.facebook.com/afpwestmincom/photos/pcb.1698446980297351/1698475846961131/?type=3&theater

https://www.facebook.com/afpwestmincom/photos/pcb.1698446980297351/1698475866961129/?type=3&theater

https://www.facebook.com/afpwestmincom/

Kalinaw News: AFP, ASG clash on pursuit operation in Sulu

Posted to Kalinaw News (Apr 6, 2020): AFP, ASG clash on pursuit operation in Sulu (By 11th Infantry Division)



Sulu Province – The operating troops of Special Forces Task Group – Dagger of the 6th Special Forces Battalion under Brigadier General Antonio G. Nafarrete, AFP, Commander, 1101st Infantry Brigade of the 11th Infantry Division clashed with the elements of Abu Sayyaf Group at So Gabang, Brgy. Kaunayan, Patikul, Sulu, around 5 o’clock in the morning, yesterday, April 4, 2020.

The troops encountered more or less thirty (30) fully armed men confirmed under ASG leader Hatib Hajan Sawadjaan with a firefight that lasted around thirty-five (35) minutes which subsequently overran their tactical lair. With such, the 6th Special Forces Battalion forced the terrorists to flee towards different directions.

Said clash were supported by 1st Scout Ranger and 6th Mechanized Battalions that resulted to the recovery of 90mm Recoiles Rifle (90RR), improvised explosive device materials and other personal belongings. Also, intelligence report confirmed that three ASG members were killed and several wounded during the firefight.

The recent encounter was the result of continuous efforts following the clash of the 1st Scout Ranger Battalion on March 13, 2020 at Brgy. Buhanginan, Patikul, Sulu and the successive surrender of ten (10) ASG members on March 6 and 9, 2020.

Ahmed, Jul, Jimmy, Madz and Kaber who were among the ten surrendered ASG members said that their fear towards the rigorous military combat operations, the declining support from the civilian populace towards the ASG and the hope for a better future have forced them to go back to the folds of the law. According to them, many ASG members are now discontented with their hierarchy who have deceived them to become bandits.

Likewise, this effort was also in line with the recent conducted consultative meeting despite the confronted COVID-19 threat situation on March 31, 2020 facilitated by Colonel Ignatius N. Patrimonio, Commander of 1102nd Infantry Brigade with the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) that discussed joint mechanism and peace efforts in fighting ASG, declared as persona non grata in support to end the local armed conflict in Sulu.

Major General Corleto S. Vinluan Jr., AFP, Commander of 11th Infantry Division assured that the momentum to eradicate ASG in Sulu will pursue amidst the presence of another concern brought about by COVID-19. “Your soldiers will conduct pursuit operation to eradicate remnants of ASG bandits that hinder further development in Sulu. Let us continue our united efforts together with the stakeholders and local government units to end the confronted local armed conflict despite the confronted COVID-19 situation,” he said.

[Kalinaw News is the official online source of information on the pursuit for peace in the Philippines This website is a property of the Civil-Military Operations Regiment, Philippine Army located at Lawton Avenue, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City. Contact us: kalinawnews@cmoregiment.com]

https://www.kalinawnews.com/afp-asg-clash-on-pursuit-operation-in-sulu-2/

Kalinaw News: Former NPA Amazon gives birth, Army to the rescue

Posted to Kalinaw News (Apr 6, 2020): Former NPA Amazon gives birth, Army to the rescue (By 23rd Infantry Battalion)



BUENAVISTA, AGUSAN DEL NORTE – A Former New People’s Army (NPA) amazon gives birth to her first son last March 24, 2020 at the Butuan City Medical Hospital on March 24, 2020.

She was assisted and brought to the hospital by the soldiers of the 23RD Infantry (Masigasig) Battalion stationed at Jamboree Site, Purok 6, Brgy Alubihid, Buenavista, Agusan del Norte. The unit is under the operational control of the 402ND Infantry Brigade.

Alias KARLA (true name withheld for security reason) is a Former Rebel (FR) who returned to the folds of the law last March 2019 with the help of the former Governor of Agusan del Norte, now the Representative of the 2ND District of the province Congresswoman Ma. Angelica Rosedell M. Amante-Matba.

She was recruited by the CPP-NPA-NDF when she was 14 years old. She was made to believe that they will help her finish her studies when she join the armed group. At the age of 17, she became a regular member and Squad Medic of Guerrilla Front 4A (GF4A), North Central Mindanao Regional Committee (NCMRC).

Due to hardship, starvation, and distress experienced inside the armed group, she decided to go back to the folds of the law. None of the promises of the CPP-NPA-NDF was fulfilled. Her time was wasted. She wasn’t able to finish her studies.

On her stay at the “Masigasig Happy Home”, temporary shelter for FRs inside camp, she met her husband, and decided to exchange vows during a Mass Wedding last December 18, 2019.

After successfully giving birth to her son, she said: “Nagpasalamat kog dako sa 23IB sa ilang pagtabang sa ako labi na sa akong pagpanganak. Layo ra kaayo ang pagtrato sa CPP-NPA sa akoa kung ikumpara nako sa pagtrato sa kasundaluhan ug sa gobyerno. Gawas sa mga benepisyo nga akong nadawat ilalom sa E-CLIP, ila pa kong gitabangan aron magpuyo ko nga normal kauban ang akong bag-ong pamilya.” (I am very grateful to the 23IB for helping me and assisting me especially in delivering my baby. The treatment of the CPP-NPA was far different compared how the soldiers and the government treated me. Aside from the benefits I received under the E-CLIP, they helped me live a normal life together with my new family.)

Meanwhile, Lt. Col. Francisco L. Molina Jr. stressed that “The life of KARLA is a concrete proof that your 23IB soldiers, in coordination with the different line government agencies, are sincere with our promises on helping the Former Rebels who choose to abandon the armed struggle. We will do our best to address your needs in order for you to live a new life with the help of the Enhanced- Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP).”

“We once again call upon the remnants of the NPAs especially the women, to please open your eyes and think wisely. Do not succumb to the sexual desires of the NPA Cadres. You deserve to be loved and taken cared of. Go back to the folds of the law. Your bright future is still waiting for you here.”-Lt. Col. Molina ended.

[Kalinaw News is the official online source of information on the pursuit for peace in the Philippines This website is a property of the Civil-Military Operations Regiment, Philippine Army located at Lawton Avenue, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City. Contact us: kalinawnews@cmoregiment.com]

https://www.kalinawnews.com/former-npa-amazon-gives-birth-army-to-the-rescue/

Kalinaw News: Army assists in the distribution of relief goods in Surigao Sur

Posted to Kalinaw News (Apr 6, 2020): Army assists in the distribution of relief goods in Surigao Sur (By 4th Infantry Division)



BISLIG CITY, Surigao del Sur-Camp Jaime N Ferrer Sr., Brgy Maharlika, Bislig City (Stn) –The Bravo “Bluefox’ Company of 75th Infantry “Marauder” Battalion assisted the Barangay Council of San Roque in the distribution of relief goods in SitioMabog, San Roque, Bislig City, Surigao del Sur on April 04, 2020.

Honorable George Peligrino, Hon. Joselyn Puyos, and Hon.Dionesio R. Carmona, Brgy Councilors of Brgy San Roque distributed relief goods to three hundred eighty (380) households in SitioMabog together with the troops of Bravo Company, 75IB led by First Lieutenant GawdaleChocenGemeniano, Company Commander who assisted in the said distribution. The relief goods distributed to every household in SitioMaboginclude three (3) kilos of rice, coffee, sardines, and noodles.

With the implementation of community quarantine, people advised about staying at home. Thus, limiting the movement and keeping social distance to avoid any spread and transmission of the disease. Further, due to the Coronavirus Disease 19 (COVID-19) effect on the people in the country, the local government and agencies find ways to help particularly the people who are in the far-flung areas.

Thus, the Philippine Army is always there to support the government in many activities that will help the people in the community, particularly in the far-flung areas that couldn’t even buy goods for their daily needs because of the COVID-19 outbreak.

Councilors Peligrino, Puyos and Carmona thanked the Bravo Company, 75IB, for their effort in assisting them during the distribution of relief goods that made the distribution easier.

Thus, 1Lt Gemeniano, under the supervision of Lieutenant Colonel Warren C Munda, Commanding Officer of 75IB, assured the Brgy Council of San Roque that the Philippine Army, mainly the 75IB is always in support to the local government and will always ensure the peace and order for the common good of the people in the community.

The troops of 75IB have their willingness to serve the people and will always support the Brgy Council of San Roque with this kind of activity. They will always be your frontliners to whatever situations may arise in the unit’s Area of Responsibility (AOR).

[Kalinaw News is the official online source of information on the pursuit for peace in the Philippines This website is a property of the Civil-Military Operations Regiment, Philippine Army located at Lawton Avenue, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City. Contact us: kalinawnews@cmoregiment.com]

https://www.kalinawnews.com/army-assists-in-the-distribution-of-relief-goods-in-surigao-sur/

Kalinaw News: Army assists in the distribution of PPEs and food packs in Surigao Sur

Posted to Kalinaw News (Apr 6, 2020): Army assists in the distribution of PPEs and food packs in Surigao Sur (By 4th Infantry Division)



BISLIG CITY, Surigao del Sur-Camp Jaime N Ferrer Sr., Brgy Maharlika, Bislig City (Stn) –The Alpha “Adeptus” Company of 75th Infantry “Marauder” Battalion assisted the Local Government Unit (LGU) of Barobo and Technical Education and Skills and Development Authority (TESDA) in the distribution of Personal Protective Equipments (PPEs) and food packs to the frontliners of quarantine control points in Barangay Wakat and BrgyCambagang of Barobo, Surigao del Sur on April 02, 2020.

The support of the LGU and TESDA by distributing PPEs and food packs to the frontliners of the different quarantine control points in the municipality of Barobo ensured the frontliners’ well-being and protection from further transmission of the infectious disease caused by the Coronavirus Disease 19 (COVID-19).

The LGU of Barobo and Sangguniang Bayan members of the municipality of Barobo headed by Honorable Joey S. Pama, Municipal Mayor, together with TESDA, SDS led by Mr. Rey M. Cueva, Provincial Director, distributed one hundred twenty (120) pieces (pcs) of face mask, 120 pcs of face shield, and forty (40) boxes of food packs to the frontliners with the assistance of Alpha “Adeptus” Company, 75IB led by Second Lieutenant Lawrence Candia, Company Commander, under the supervision of Lieutenant Colonel Warren C Munda, Commanding Officer of 75IB.

Moreover, the collaboration of the LGU and other government agency bespeak with their unity against COVID-19, and in providing our frontliners with foods and PPEs they need.

Lt. Col. Munda, uttered his appreciation to TESDA and LGU for they have provided and supported the frontliners with foods, particularly the PPEs they needed every day to keep them protected.

It is always a reminder to everyone to follow the protective measures to prevent the spread and not to be infected with the virus. Stay home and do your part as our frontliners do their part to protect the people and the community as well.



[Kalinaw News is the official online source of information on the pursuit for peace in the Philippines This website is a property of the Civil-Military Operations Regiment, Philippine Army located at Lawton Avenue, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City. Contact us: kalinawnews@cmoregiment.com]

https://www.kalinawnews.com/army-assists-in-the-distribution-of-ppes-and-food-packs-in-surigao-sur/

Army, PNP frontliners in Negros Covid-free

From the Visayan Daily Star (Apr 6, 2020): Army, PNP frontliners in Negros Covid-free

Police personnel assisting medical health personnel in border control operations in Negros Occidental remained COVID-19 free, provincial police spokesman Maj. Edison Garcia yesterday said.

Aside from manning the quarantine control areas, members of the Negros Occidental Police Provincial Office in different towns and cities are implementing the Enhanced Community Quarantine, as stated in the executive order issued by Gov. Eugenio Jose Lacson, until April 14 this year.

As of April 4, the PNP Health Service recorded 14 confirmed cases and two COVID-19 related deaths in the PNP organization in other parts of the country.

To ensure that Army personnel will be COVID-free, Capt. Cenon Pancito, 3rd Infantry Division spokesman, yesterday said those rendering disease-related duties are required to undergo quarantine and may only resume duties after the prescribed period.

Pancito also reported that 3ID soldiers stationed in Western and Central Visayas remained COVID-19 free.

Brig. Gen. Marni Marcos, acting director for Comptrollership, said in a PNP-issued statement that they are fast-tracking the release of funds allocated for the hazard pay of police personnel, who are rendering duties as ECQ frontliners.

Marcos said that a uniform rate of P235 a day, or a total of not more than P7,050 a month, will be extended to all ECQ frontliners.

He added that the PNP coordinates with the Department of Budget and Management for availability of additional funds to complete the maximum pay of P500 for frontliners.

Marcos said that the PNP also links with the Accredited Private Lending Institutions with regard to the suspension of loan deductions to augment the financial capabilities of their personnel and to increase their Net Take Home Pay.

The loan deductions, he said, will benefit their respective families as they face the effects of the crisis caused by the pandemic.

http://www.visayandailystar.com/2020/April/6/topstory7.htm

Army violates ceasefire, NPA says

From the Visayan Daily Star (Apr 6, 2020): Army violates ceasefire, NPA says

The Army’s 3rd Infantry Division yesterday advised the New People’s Army to stay in their lairs, so as not to start chaos, as it brushed aside accusations of alleged ceasefire violations.

The government's sovereign authority to declare a unilateral ceasefire is not tied down to any arbitrary conditions of any political or armed groups such as the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army-National Democratic Front, said Capt. Cenon Pancito, 3ID Public Affairs office chief.

What the 3ID has suspended is direct offensive action against the CPP-NPA-NDF, Pancito stressed.

Ka Juanito Magbanua, spokesman of the Apolinario Gatmaitan Command, issued a statement strongly condemning the continued military operations in the hinterlands of Moises Padilla, Ilog, Candoni, Sipalay City, Kabankalan City, Hinoba-an and Binalbagan in Negros Occidental, and Guihulngan City in Negros Oriental, which is a violation of their declared unilateral ceasefire.

Magbanua accused the Armed Forces of the Philippines of using the COVID- 19 issue to justify their combat operations in places they deem to be under the control of the revolutionary movement.

“These show the deception of the US-Duterte regime behind its unilateral ceasefire declaration that in truth aims to destroy the revolutionary movement, while peoples of the world are fighting the COVID-19,” Magbanua claimed.

While the 3ID suspends its direct offensive action against the CPP-NPA-NDF, Pancito said “it does not mean that the NPA rebels are allowed to terrorize the people, or for them to start their evil intentions in the barangays”.

He also pointed out that the declaration of unilateral ceasefire is founded on the government sovereign social contract with the people which is the framework of the sovereignty of the state and the government.

The CPP-NPA declared a ceasefire against government forces from March 26 to April 15, while the government unilateral ceasefire took effect March 19 to April 15.

Juanito called all military troops to follow their ceasefire declaration, and they should remain in their detachments and help in serving the people.

Pancito stressed that that the declaration of a unilateral ceasefire by the government will not limit its sovereign authority to perform and execute its legal mandate, including law enforcement, public safety and security operations, and maintaining the operationalization of all necessary legal instruments and legal processes.

“Our ceasefire does not mean that the NPAs are allowed to terrorize the people. The Army soldiers will definitely stop NPA illegal activities as reported by the masses,” he said.*




http://www.visayandailystar.com/2020/April/6/topstory6.htm

4Mech, LGU distribute relief assistance to MILF communities

From the Philippine Information Agency (Apr 6, 2020): 4Mech, LGU distribute relief assistance to MILF communities  (By 4th Mechanized Infantry Battalion)



ILIGAN CITY, Apr. 6 (PIA) -- The Provincial Government of Lanao del Norte through the 4th Mechanized Infantry (Kalasag) Battalion and in coordination with the Local Government Unit (LGU) of Munai turned over relief assistance to the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) communities in Munai on Saturday, April 04.

Bangsamoro Transition Authority (BTA) Commissioner Abdullah “Bravo” Macapaar received the sacks of rice and financial assistance at Camp Bilal, KuraKura while the MILF community under Aleem Anzari Murrad also received the same in Brgy Bacayawan.

Troops from the 4th Mechanized Infantry (Kalasag) Battalion unload the relief assistance to be turned over to MILF communities in Munai, Lanao del Norte.

The assistance aims to provide food and means to procure medicines and other supplies needed by the MILF communities while the provincial government implements the Enhanced Community Quarantine enforcing strict observance of home quarantine and limiting people's movement.

In his message, Macapaar sincerely thanked the government for extending assistance to their communities. “Makakarating po ito sa sinong may kailangan…Hindi lang ito sa mga military natin, yung iba pang may kailangan sa community, Muslim man o Christian,” he said.

Murrad also expressed his gratitude to the government for looking after the welfare of MILF communities. “Konti man o malaki ang maibigay ngayon, talagang maraming salamat. Tinatanggap namin yan dahil yung maliit ay magiging malaking tulong (malaki)," he said.

With the government’s peace agreement with MILF going stronger, convergence activities for peace and development in their community continue. These activities aim to build stronger partnerships and foundation for sustainable peace not only in the province of Lanao del Norte but a great part of Mindanao.

“No one will be left behind. Wala pong maiiwan sa labang ito kontra COVID-19. This is the very essence that Governor Dimaporo included the MILF communities outside BARMM in the relief activities of the province,” said Ltc Domingo G Dulay Jr., commanding officer of the 4th Mechanized Infantry Battalion.

Vice Mayor Abdulazis Batingolo, municipal councilors of Munai, Musa Mohammad Sanguila of Pakigdait Inc.,and Munai PNP Chief of Police PCpt Mohaimen Abdulpakat were also present during the distribution.

"In this time of public health emergency, the 4th Mechanized Infantry Battalion will continue to support the LGU in its effort to provide aid to communities affected by COVID-19 crisis but without compromising its mandate of providing security to the people against threat groups that may take advantage of the situation," added Dulay. (4thMech/PIA ICIC)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1038207

PCOO on Chinese medical team: PH not alone in facing Covid-19

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 6, 2020): PCOO on Chinese medical team: PH not alone in facing Covid-19 (By Azer Parrocha)



'WE FIGHT AS ONE.' Chinese Ambassador Huang Xilian (5th from right) turns over medical supplies to Foreign Affairs Secretary Teodoro L. Locsin Jr. (4th from left) at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) in Parañaque City on Sunday (April 5, 2020). The Chinese government has donated 300,000 surgical masks, 30,000 medical N95 masks, 5,000 medical protective suits, 5,000 medical face shields, and 30 non-invasive ventilators. (PNA photo by Joey Razon)

Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO) Secretary Martin Andanar thanked the Chinese government for sending a team of medical experts and a fresh batch of supplies to help address the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) pandemic in the country.

“We give our deepest gratitude to China for extending its assistance to the Philippines in its collective fight against the Covid-19 disease, by sending a team, composed of 10 medical experts and two officials, that can share technical knowledge in dealing with the disease,” he said in a statement.

He said the Chinese government also donated 300,000 surgical masks, 30,000 medical N95 masks, 5,000 medical protective suits, 5,000 medical face shields, and 30 non-invasive ventilators.

“The help given by China and that of other countries has strongly shown that the Philippines is not alone in facing this virus and in working to flatten the curve of its spread, it has the help and the support of the global community,” he added.

Globally, the number of confirmed cases of Covid-19 has surpassed 1 million, while over 50,000 people have died from the disease which originated in Wuhan City in Hubei province, China.

In the Philippines, there are a total of 3,246 total cases with 152 deaths as of April 5.

Earlier, Peace Adviser and chief implementer of the National Action Policy against Covid-19 Carlito Galvez Jr. said the government is looking to start mass testing on April 14.

The PCOO chief, meanwhile, urged the public to support global efforts to address the pandemic by adhering to all preventive measures and the guidelines set by the government under the enhanced community quarantine.

In a tweet, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) announced that DFA Secretary Teodoro Locsin Jr. on Sunday welcomed 10 medical experts and two officials to “share technical advice” to prevent the spread of the disease.

Locsin, in his Twitter account, thanked the Chinese government for sending experts who have “invaluable first-hand experiences” to share in responding to the health crisis.

Health Secretary Francisco Duque III, in an interview with government media, said the country’s pool of medical professionals will greatly benefit from the experience of the medical team who took the heat of the pandemic.

“They have a lot of good practices, if not, best-practices, when they manage their patients, the Covid-19 patients, in Wuhan and Hubei,” Duque added.

He said the Chinese medical experts would be visiting hospitals with the Department of Health (DOH) staff to conduct training and clarified that their task here was “purely advisory.”

“It is really guiding how to improve, level-up our Covid-19 response, learn different levels of surveillance, risk-assessment, isolation strategies, detection through accurate testing, clinical case management, and non-pharmaceutical public health measures,” he said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1098904

Army troops distribute relief packs in Pasig

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 6, 2020): Army troops distribute relief packs in Pasig (By Priam Nepomuceno)



RELIEF DRIVE. Army troops distribute relief packs donated by Landers Superstore to households in Baranggay Manggahan, Pasig City on Saturday (April 4, 2020). A total of 1,000 relief packs containing rice, canned goods, and instant noodles were distributed to residents whose sources of income were affected by the Luzon-wide enhanced community quarantine. (Photo courtesy of Army Chief Public Affairs Office)

The Philippine Army’s 11th Civil-Military Operations (CMO) Battalion distributed 1,000 relief packs donated by Landers Superstore to the residents of Barangay Manggahan, Pasig City last April 4.

In a statement released on Sunday, PA spokesperson Col. Ramon Zagala said the 11th CMO Battalion headed the hauling and distribution of 1,000 relief packs to the beneficiaries.

Each relief pack contains five kilograms of rice, 16 pieces of canned goods and three packs of noodles.

"Your Philippine Army in collaboration with other stakeholders will continue to serve the people by bringing relief to our kababayans in this time of crisis,” Zagala said.

In partnership with the store, 2nd Lt. Matteo Guidicelli (Reserve) generated a total of PHP9 million through the second online fundraising concert “One Voice Pilipinas” last March 29.

Meanwhile, the first online concert last March 22, has funded two relief operations for the affected residents in San Jose, Rodriguez, Rizal, and Barangay Payatas, Quezon City.

Proceeds from the second concert were used to purchase relief packs for the residents in Barangay Manggahan whose livelihood was affected by the enhanced community quarantine in Luzon imposed due to the outbreak of the coronavirus disease.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1098901

BRP Jose Rizal delivery may be delayed due to Covid-19: Navy

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 6, 2020): BRP Jose Rizal delivery may be delayed due to Covid-19: Navy (By Priam Nepomuceno)



BRP Jose Rizal. (File photo)

The delivery of the country's first-ever frigate, BRP Jose Rizal (FF-150), might be delayed due to the coronavirus (Covid-19) outbreak, the chief of the Philippine Navy (PN) said Sunday.

Navy flag-officer-in-command Rear Adm. Giovanni Carlo Bacordo said the members of the Technical Inspection and Acceptance Committee (TIAC), who will check and certify as fit for service the various systems and components of the ship, need to comply with South Korea's mandatory 14-day quarantine upon arrival for all incoming travelers.

While the ruling is reasonable due to the Covid-19 crisis, Bacordo said this will make it difficult for TIAC members to proceed with their business.

"Let's say that a TIAC member is going in South Korea for three days (for technical inspection) and upon arrival there, he will have to go on a two-week quarantine, how can you conduct a TIAC on that," he said in a media interview.

South Korean shipbuilder Hyundai Heavy Industries has earlier vowed to deliver the BRP Jose Rizal by the third week of April or five months earlier than its planned September delivery schedule.

Currently, the ship is largely complete and has undergone its various sea trials.

Another problem caused by Covid-19 is that Navy personnel who are supposed to undergo training on the various systems of the ship, including its weapons, can't go to South Korea due to the ongoing pandemic.

"Part of the contract states that the original equipment manufacturers are supposed to train PN personnel but due to (Covid-19 situation), so what will (probably) happen is that training will start once the ship is delivered here," Bacordo said.

BRP Jose Rizal has a maximum designed speed of 25 knots and a cruising speed of 15 knots and a range of 4,500 nautical miles. The ship was launched at the Hyundai Heavy Industries shipyard in Ulsan May 23, 2019.

The contract for the BRP Jose Rizal and its sister ship, the BRP Antonio Luna (FF-151), is placed at PHP16 billion with another PHP2 billion for weapon systems and munitions.

These ships are capable of conducting anti-air warfare, anti-surface warfare, anti-submarine warfare, and electronic warfare operations.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1098900

More assets vs. Covid-19 with deferment of int'l events: Navy

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 6, 2020): More assets vs. Covid-19 with deferment of int'l events: Navy (By Priam Nepomuceno)

The Philippine Navy's (PN) decision to defer participation in various international events set for this year will allow its deployment of more assets to help the government's efforts in mitigating the effects of the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19).

"With the deferment of this international gathering, the PN is geared toward maximizing its capabilities to help mitigate the devastating effect of Covid-19. Sea, air and land assets are all in place for necessary deployment while sailors, marines, and reservists join the frontline of the inter-agency task force to help contain the spread of the virus," PN public affairs office chief, Lt. Commander Maria Christina Roxas said in a statement late Sunday.

Earlier, Navy flag-officer-in-command, Rear Admiral Giovanni Carlo Bacordo said that the country's hosting of the 17th Western Pacific Naval Symposium (WPNS) and International Fleet Review (IFR) has been postponed to a later date due to the public health emergency.
The WPNS was supposed to be held in Manila this coming May 19 to 21 with the IFR being held off Manila Bay during the last day of the symposium.

These events were moved to a later date in the interest of health and safety in light of the Covid-19 pandemic.

"The rapid increase of cases worldwide which also affect 21 WPNS member countries and eight observer states compelled the PN to defer the historic convergence of navy chiefs and warships in the country especially now that the Philippines is now under the state of public health emergency," Roxas added.

Other international maritime exercises that have been postponed because of Covid-19 include the ASEAN Navy Chiefs’ Meeting, ASEAN Multilateral Naval Exercise, and International Maritime Review.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1098919

AFP medical personnel to care for Covid-19 patients

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 6, 2020): AFP medical personnel to care for Covid-19 patients (By Priam Nepomuceno)



AFP spokesperson, Marine Brig. Gen. Edgard Arevalo. (File photo)

Doctors and nurses of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) will be deployed at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium once it opens as a quarantine facility this week, a ranking military official said Monday.

"On 05 April 2020, the AFP answered the call to be at the bed side of our fellow Filipinos infected with the disease. As the Ninoy Aquino Stadium opens as a quarantine and treatment facility for (coronavirus disease) Covid-19 patients and Persons Under Investigation, military doctors, nurses, and aid men will render a 24/7 duty," AFP spokesperson, Marine Brig. Gen. Edgard Arevalo, said in a statement sent to reporters.

The Ninoy Aquino Stadium is located inside the Rizal Memorial Sports Complex in Malate, Manila.

"I am aware of the many and varying difficulties we are experiencing like crosses we bear on our shoulders not only in this time of Lent but also in the period of enhanced community quarantine. But in carrying faithfully our share in the load, the burden will be lighter and more bearable. This is the spirit of your AFP’s taking on this privilege to serve the nation," he added.

Arevalo also urged Filipinos to do their part to help each other during this period as the government works to curb the spread of Covid-19.

"I urge fellow Filipinos to do our part and help one another. We need all the support from everybody— including prayers. Let us include our health workers and our less fortunate kababayans in our daily devotions," he added.

Arevalo said the public can make a humble but immensely helpful contribution to this fight and they can do this by staying at home, promoting personal hygiene, and observing physical distancing.

"If we necessarily have to leave home, obey regulations and never forget to wear masks. This is the time when being healthy physically is a patriotic duty just as being spiritually clean is a divine obligation," he added.

As for troops manning Covid-19 front lines, Arevalo assured military personnel that initiatives to protect their health will continue.

"To the troops, rest assured that AFP initiatives to protect our front-liners will continue. Your health will always be of utmost importance to the AFP leadership as we endeavor to preserve the fighting force to help the country win this battle," he said.

He also said the AFP joins the Christian faithful worldwide in a peaceful and pious observance of the Lenten Season amid the challenges posed by Covid-19.

"As we mark the start of the Holy Week, let us be reminded of God’s infinite love and mercy that He sent His only begotten son to bring us salvation. Let us draw inspiration from Christ’s suffering and passion in the cross wherein the end He triumphed over death. Let us have the faith that we will be able to hurdle this test of Filipino resilience and indomitable spirit— confident that this, too, shall pass," he added.

Arevalo said the AFP will remain vigilant and always ready to protect and shield Filipino communities not only from Covid-19 but also the communist terrorist group, local terrorist group and other enemies of the state.

"I enjoin every member of the AFP to heed the call to selflessly serve our country especially at this time of great need," he added.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1098957